Arthur J. Buhnerkempe (81) of Sigel (Lillyville)

Arthur J. Buhnerkempe, 81, of Sigel (Lillyville) went to be with the Lord at 1:40 a.m. on Wednesday morning, July 31, 2013 in his home, surrounded by his loving family.

Mass of Christian burial for Arthur will be at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, August 3, 2013 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Lillyville. Burial will be in the Sacred Heart Church Cemetery, Lillyville. Visitation is from 4:00 - 8:00 p.m. on Friday, August 2, 2013 at the church with a 7:00 p.m. parish wake service immediately followed by a Teutopolis Knights of Columbus Rosary Council #2874. Memorials may be made to Sacred Heart Church, Lillyville or donor’s choice. Online condolences may be left at www.hallfuneralchapel.com. Services are in care of Hall Funeral Chapel, Effingham.

Arthur was born September 27, 1931 in Cumberland County the son of Edward and Agnes (Thoele) Buhnerkempe. He married Irene (Pat) Thoele on August 8, 1953 and she survives.

Arthur was a life-long dairy and grain farmer, life time member of Sacred Heart Church, Lillyville, member of the Lillyville Men’s Sodality, life time member of Teutopolis Knights of Columbus Council #2874, Purple Martin Conservation Association, past seed corn dealer and 4h leader. In his retirement he enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was an avid purple martin enthusiast and enjoyed gardening and reading. Arthur helped his boys on the family farm and enjoyed his collie dog.